Top 8 things to do in Transylvania

Transylvania, it’s a real place, and Dracula is a real person – sort of. Stories of the creepy Count were inspired by the real life of Vlad Dracula (aka Vlad the Impaler) – a little pub quiz trivia for you, if you ever need it. So, what can you get up to in this mysterious town of bloodthirsty vampires in the heart of Romania?

Bran Castle, aka Dracula’s castle

Going to Romania and not hunting for Dracula, is like going to the arcades and not having a go on the 2p machines – it’s just not possible. Plus, when the castle looks like it’s just been dropped out of a fairytale, you’ve got to check it out.

The best time to go? Halloween, for obvious reasons. Party in the grounds of the castle on this chilling 3-day tour!

Apollo-Felix open air bath

Eastern Europeans love their thermal baths, and when they look like Apollo-Felix, you can see why. Think thermal pools, relaxation pools, underwater massage beds, and even a wave pool for the big kids. Or mature adults. You know.

Go on a castle crawl

If you’re a castle connoisseur, you’ll probably already know Transylvania has some epic medieval masterpieces. Take the impressive and spellbinding Corvin Castle, the neo-Renaissance Peleş castle, or the immaculate Bánffy castle.

Visit Sighişoara, the birthplace of Dracula

Step back in time when you visit Sighişoara, a medieval citadel enclosed within the walls of the UNESCO World Heritage old town. The pastel-hued buildings are ideal for that perfect Insta shot, and the old school feel will pull you out of your own world and into another.

Take a drive up the Transfăgărășan Road

This original 70’s military route winds its way over the Făgărăș Mountains – you’ll find your way up a valley to Lake Bâlea, you’ll drive through a reallyyyy long tunnel and then through forests. Like a proper little quest. If ever there was a road to drive along, this is it. It’s only open from June – October, FYI.

Poienari Citadel – the real home of Dracula

If you’re planning on taking a drive along the Transfăgărășan Road, then this stunning and secluded refuge in the Arges Valley is right at the start. Climb the 1,480 steps to get to the top and ogle at the surrounding scenery – which is pretty much what you’re going to spend your entire time in Romania doing. So.much.beaut.greenery.

Transylvanian Alps

If your trip isn’t complete without a decent hike, then put on your hiking boots and head to the Southern Carpathians for some seriously impressive views over the valleys. Fagaras is the highest mountain range, and Mount Moldoveanu is the highest point at 8,346 feet.

Targoviste Princely Court

Targoviste was the capital of Romania until Bucharest took the title, and the Princely Court dates back to the 15th Century. And guess who resided there? Vlad the Impaler, of course (where hasn’t he been?!). He built the Chindia Tower of the court, and you can learn about him and his life in the tower’s exhibition.

If you feel like all your Gothic fantasies could be fulfilled with a trip to the alluring and spooky Transylvania, then check out these G Adventure Halloween tours of Bucharest and its surroundings. Just choose the 3-day or the 7-day tour!